Parts for your 2018 Mazda Cx-5-Steering rack

2018 Mazda CX-5 Steering Rack: What It Does and How to Look After It

Yes, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 uses a steering rack. Technical documentation confirms it’s an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion system. Mazda’s CX-5 (KF, 2017–2021) Workshop Manual includes a “Steering Gear and Linkage (EPS)” section detailing the rack-and-pinion assembly with an integrated electric assist motor. The 2018 Owner’s Manual describes Electric Power Steering (EPS), and the Mazda electronic parts catalogue lists the complete steering gear (rack) assembly for 2018 CX-5 variants. Together, these sources make it clear the steering rack is a fitted, relevant component.

On the 2018 CX-5, the steering rack converts the driver’s steering wheel input into precise side-to-side movement that turns the front wheels via the inner and outer tie rods. The electric motor on the rack provides speed-sensitive assist, so it’s light in town and nicely weighted on the motorway. Because it’s EPS, there’s no hydraulic fluid to check or change, which keeps servicing simpler.

In normal servicing, a technician will check the rack boots for splits, inspect inner and outer tie rods for play, and make sure the rack mounts are secure. They’ll also road-test for any clunks, binding, or vague on-centre feel. If the vehicle has hit a kerb or a pothole hard, it’s smart to have the steering and alignment checked—bent tie rods or damage can accelerate rack wear and chew out tyres.

• Common symptoms to watch: play in the steering, knocking over bumps, uneven tyre wear, heavy or inconsistent steering assist, or EPS warning lights with steering-related fault codes.
• Typical remedies: replace worn tie-rod ends or inner tie rods first, only replace the rack if there’s internal wear, binding, impact damage, or confirmed EPS motor/sensor faults.

When a rack replacement is needed on a 2018 CX-5, expect the subframe to be partially lowered for removal. Battery disconnection is required, and after installation the steering angle and EPS need recalibration with a scan tool. A four-wheel alignment is essential to protect tyres and ensure straight-ahead tracking. Quality genuine or reputable remanufactured racks, new rack boots, and new lock nuts for tie rods are recommended. With these steps sorted, the CX-5’s steering feel stays crisp and dependable for many kilometres across Australia and New Zealand.

Popular questions

Does the 2018 Mazda CX-5 have a steering rack?
Yes. It uses an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion unit. Mazda’s workshop manual and parts catalogue list a complete EPS steering gear for the KF-series CX-5, which includes the 2018 model year.

Is there power steering fluid to change on the 2018 CX-5?
No. It’s an EPS system, so there’s no hydraulic fluid. Servicing focuses on inspecting rack boots, tie rods, and mounts, checking for play or noise, and performing wheel alignments as needed.

Do you need an alignment after replacing the steering rack?
Absolutely. Any rack or tie-rod work alters toe settings. A proper four-wheel alignment after installation and EPS/steering angle calibration is essential for straight steering and even tyre wear.